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By Paul E. Kandarian, Globe Correspondent

More of us are traveling this holiday season, and spending more along the way, according to the latest American Express Spending and Saving Tracker survey. Some 84 million Americans plan to travel this year, up seven percent from last year, spending some $65 billion, an average of $773 per person - up from $659 last year.

Breaking it all down, the survey reveals that 68 percent of those traveling plan to visit family and friends, up from 65 percent last year. And this shouldn't be surprising: 75 percent of travelers report they experience frustration trying to get away during the holidays. And part of that frustration is a 19-percent increase in airfare prices, 13-percent jump in delays and 10-percent hike in baggage fees.

More fun facts: 42-percent of travelers will fly to their destinations, up six percent from last year; 27 percent plan longer vacations, up four percent from last year; and 16 percent traveling to more expensive place, up four percent from last year.

But many are still money conscious: 38 percent still consider budget before destination when making travel plans, down a bit from 40 percent last year.